Ken Guenthner

Known as an ambassador for greyhound racing, you were an enthusiastic manager who dedicated most of your life to the betterment of the sport.

Born on June 18, 1912 in Bridgewater, S.D., you soon acquired a competitive spirit. A career as a sportswriter, assignments in the Army and involvement in several political campaigns helped you develop your fine communication and organizational skills.

In 1956, a group of Sioux City, S.D. civic leaders asked you to manage a troubled Sodrac Park. It was your introduction into greyhound racing. You stayed on as general manager after the track was purchased by Jerry Collins and during your five years there the handle rose from $2 to $8 million.

In 1964, you became a stockholder of the Black Hills Track, and acquired the position of general manager there two years later. Although one of the smallest tracks in America, Black Hills flourished under your 25 years of gui_dance. Your secret to success was encouraging track management and greyhound owners to work together toward mutual goals. In 1977, one of those goals was realized when Black Hills, despite its size, attracted world champion Downing for an unforgettable, record-breaking match race.

You earned the respect of every segment of the industry, from fellow track operators to greyhound owners, kennel operators and breeders. In 1978, you became only the second track operator to be selected as an honoree at the National Greyhound Association meet banquet.

For two decades you served as a member of the Greyhound Hall of Fame Board of Directors. You were instrumental in the fundraising efforts for the building and for the acquisition of the property on which it stands.

In 1987, you were among the first to be appointed to serve on the American Greyhound Council and was elected as its first president. The next year, you were elected president of the American Greyhound Track Operators Association, an organization you served in other capacities for more than three decades.

Now, at the age of 82, you still are active in public service and civic affairs in Rapid City.